Is It Covered?
Plain-English answers about what renters and homeowners insurance really pays for.
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Covered or Excluded is an independent guide that explains, in plain English, what renters and homeowners insurance typically pays for, and what it usually leaves out. Pick your situation below, or search for the problem you are dealing with.
How to Read Our Answers
Every guide starts with a short answer, so you know where you stand before you read the details.
Usually paid under a standard policy, subject to limits and your deductible.
Depends on the cause of damage, your policy wording or an added endorsement.
Usually not paid under a standard policy unless you buy separate coverage.
Are You a Renter or a Homeowner?
The same event can be treated very differently depending on your policy type.
Renters
Your belongings, loss of use if you can’t stay in the unit, and personal liability. The building itself is your landlord’s responsibility.
Homeowners
The structure, other buildings on your lot, personal property, liability and additional living expenses after a covered loss.
What People Ask Us Most
- Is mold damage covered, and when is it excluded?
- Does insurance pay for flooding, basement water or a burst pipe?
- What happens after a fire, hurricane or storm?
- Are stolen items, jewelry, bikes or firearms covered?
- Does my policy cover pets, pests, roommates or guests?
- Who pays for a hotel if I can’t stay at home?
- How do deductibles, claims and exclusions actually work?
How We Write Our Guides
We explain general rules, using public guidance from state insurance departments and consumer organizations. We cannot see your policy, so we show what to look for in your own documents. Each guide shows when it was last updated.
Important: Covered or Excluded is an educational website, not an insurance company, agent or law firm. Information here is general and is not insurance, legal or financial advice. Coverage depends on your policy, your insurer and your state. Read your policy and contact your insurer or a licensed agent before you decide or file a claim.